Your Third Trimester
Congratulations on reaching this exciting stage of your journey toward motherhood!
The third trimester marks the home stretch as you prepare to welcome your baby into this world. We know that you may have questions and concerns, and we will be here to provide you with care, support, and expertise every step of the way.
What happens during the third trimester?
The third trimester is from week 27 to the end of your pregnancy. During this time, your baby will continue to grow in size and weight. It is normal if you start to feel a bit more uncomfortable as you continue to gain weight. You may begin to have false labor contractions, called Braxton Hicks contractions. These contractions last around 30 seconds, are irregular, and not painful. Remember that this is not a sign that labor has begun.
During this final trimester, your baby’s bones are fully formed, and their organs are capable of functioning on their own. As you near your due date, their body should turn southwards into a head-down position for birth.
What to expect during your third trimester appointments
You will have the following visits during your third trimester:
• 30 to 34 weeks: Your provider and care team will share what it means to have your baby in a Baby-Friendly® designated hospital, explain terms like “rooming in” and “skin to skin,” and share breastfeeding resources. Contraception options for after the baby is born will be discussed. If you are considering postpartum sterilization, this is the time to fill out a consent form. Education on “kick counts” will be given, as well as how to recognize preterm labor signs and what to do if you experience them.
• 36 weeks: Your provider will perform a pelvic exam to confirm the position of your baby. A group B strep test will also be done at this visit. Please bring your completed birth plan from your MyChart account to discuss with your provider, including pain management for labor and after delivery, the postpartum period, and mood changes.
• 38 weeks: Your provider will discuss potential indications for C-section and operative delivery. A cervical check will be performed if indicated.
• 39 to 40 weeks: Your provider will perform a cervical check. They will also review signs of labor and what to expect if you pass your expected due date.
Your third-trimester checklist
Here is a checklist of considerations during your third trimester:
• Discuss your birth preferences with your provider, and create a birth plan that considers pain management, delivery positions, and any special requests you may have. You can do this directly in your MyChart account
• Take a tour of the hospital or birthing center where you plan to deliver.
• Purchase or gather all the necessary items you need for your baby’s arrival, including clothing, diapers, feeding supplies, and a safe car seat. For more information, contact: Grand Rapids – 616.391.7233 or Lakeshore - 616.748.2285.
• Talk to your employer about maternity leave plans, and make any necessary arrangements with your workplace
• Bring any necessary paperwork from your employer, such as Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) forms, to your appointments. Your provider will assist you in completing the required documentation
• Prepare a hospital bag with essentials for your hospital stay, including comfortable clothes, toiletries, nursing bras, snacks, and items for your baby, like clothes, diapers, and a receiving blanket
• If you plan to breastfeed, consider attending a breastfeeding class or seek information and support from one of our lactation consultants.
• If you plan to bottle-feed, make sure you have the necessary supplies and formula on hand
• Enroll in our childbirth classes to learn about labor, breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, and infant care.
• Explore and educate yourself about post-delivery administration, such as birth certificates, social security numbers, and health insurance enrollment for your newborn
• Request a copy of the Going into Labor Guide from your provider.
• Consider if you notice any extreme feelings of guilt or hopelessness, which can occur before, during, or after the birth of your child, and reach out for help.
Remember that every pregnancy is unique, and it’s important to discuss any specific concerns or questions that you may have during the third trimester with your provider.
We’re here to help you understand what happens during your pregnancy journey
You may have many questions about your pregnancy journey. We are committed to providing you with comprehensive answers and resources to make you feel as confident and comfortable as possible.
Refer to our Question Guide for things that you may want to ask your doctor during your appointments.
Refer to our Question Guide and FAQs in your first trimester packet for commonly asked questions and answers.
Financial support and assistance
We recognize that planning a pregnancy can feel overwhelming on its own without the additional burden of financial concerns. We are committed to helping you in any way we can, including offering financial support and assistance to those who are eligible.
What to do if you are not feeling your best?
We know that you know your body better than anyone and can often tell when something does not feel right. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has resources for you to learn the warning signs of pregnancy-related health emergencies.
Please contact your provider right away if something does not feel right, as they can give you the appropriate guidance and care.